We think of Dubai as this shining modern metropolis with the gleaming new towers built over just the last couple of decades. However, Dubai is a city with a history as well; with an old quarter with its own unique atmosphere and charm! Recently the rulers of the Emirate have decided to preserve the heritage of the modern city by identifying some buildings for their historical significance and preserving them.
Several government organisations have been roped in for this initiative to protect some of Dubai’s older buildings. According to the director of the Architectural Heritage Department, Ahmed Mahmoud, "Many of these buildings still occupy major positions and perform important functions.” Not only that; the future urban design and architectural developments in the area were also influenced by these buildings that date back to the 1960s and 1970s, which is why there is a need to preserve these.
Dubai has come a long way since it was a small pearl fishing center. It may be a bustling global city and a melting pot of people from all over the world, however, it still has areas that have a quaint, otherworldly charm that cannot be discounted. Areas such as Dubai’s old quarter give a glimpse into the city's past and its traditions.
This building is a landmark of the area and apart from its significance as a medical facility, it is also an important piece of architecture from several decades ago. Built in 1966, this was one of the first hospitals built in Deira.
The Dubai world trade centre was built by architect John Harris in 1973 and is a well known landmark; as the region's first skyscraper. The 39 storey building may be dwarfed by other tall buildings now, but it was a wonder for its time and is still an important venue for exhibitions, business events and seminars that attract thousands each year.
This structure dates back to a time before the UAE was established; when in 1963 it was constructed to mark the nation's first oil exports. It was called the Dubai Clock tower initially and is now known as Deira Clock tower.
The design of the building was unique at the time and has since been adopted as a model at many other places in the UAE.
This was the first library in Dubai and is over 50 years old today. It was built in 1963 under the guidance of Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Several ministries dealing with education, health, arts & culture will be pooling their resources to do the needful to preserve these buildings.
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